Describes a project which developed a shared electronic environment of virtual reality using satellite telecommunications technologies to create desktop multimedia networking. The origins of the concept of shared electronic space are explained, and the importance for human communication of sharing both audio and visual space simultaneously is…

A study explored the social uses of computer-mediated communication, identifying primary users and amounts of time spent using two related systems. Interviews and observations of computer users suggest that a large, socially active computing subculture is based at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst campus. It was hypothesized that members of…

This column describes British technological aids that can support children with communication and writing difficulties, including (1) writing aids such as predictive typing, abbreviation expansion systems, and alternative keyboards; and (2) socially interactive communication aids such as synthetic speech using portable computers. (JDD)

Presents a review of research on the influence of computing on government and politics. States that computing has increased information power, efficiency, and centralized control within the political world. Concludes that even though there is little current evidence that computing has revolutionized politics, the emerging impacts of advanced…

Suggests that facilitation of communication and sharing between libraries and information providers through microcomputer-based information networks creates an unprecedented need to know each other's priorities while addressing the whole network's needs. Systematic planning toward this end must be deliberate and directed, based on shared values…

Determined types of group behaviors related to the content achievement of middle school special education and nonspecial education students working in groups on computers. Results indicated that two interpersonal behavior variables were related to achievement: mutual keyboard usage and giving explanation; and that special education students gave…

A study was conducted to explore how microcomputers had affected the collaborative writing and communication habits of 11 teachers and 16 students at a midwestern technological university. Informal observations made after the computers were placed in faculty workspaces and later in a computer lab led to a more formal survey of teachers and…

Discusses a case study in which dyads of students and teachers using a microcomputer-based computer assisted learning (CAL) program are videotaped to analyze the interactions. Results from the dialogue analysis are related to learning outcomes and evaluating the educational efficacy of CAL software is discussed. (24 references) (LRW)

Describes a microcomputer-based digital video course that uses virtual reality to teach the code inspection (i.e., formal software technical review) process. Use of virtual reality for group process activities that involve interpersonal and group dynamic skills is discussed, and research indicating that realism improves course effectiveness is…

Three high-achieving and three low-achieving 4-year-olds attending prekindergarten at a private elementary school in New Orleans, Louisiana were studied as they interacted with computers in dyads. Subject pairs were composed of one high- and one low-achiever and varied according to sex: boy/boy, boy/girl, and girl/girl. Qualitative methods of…

Describes efforts by a university librarian to establish a helpful relationship with an international researcher. Topics discussed include language barriers; cultural differences, including methods of interpersonal communication; learning to use an automated library; developing a personal computer system; and using an atlas to help foster mutual…

Several researchers have stated that male and female students have different microcomputer experiences which result in qualitatively different computer literacy. Data suggest that differences may result from different guidance to the student from family and school. A descriptive study was undertaken to discover the information resources and…

The view that computers are crucial tools in current educational technology raises questions concerning their importance for prospective teachers and invites concern about how preservice teachers might react to interacting with both computers and children in an educational setting. Preservice language arts teachers with little computer experience…

Discussion of the use of electronic networks for learning activities highlights the Noon Observation Project in which students in various locations measured the length of a noontime shadow to determine the earth's circumference. Electronic pen pals are discussed, and the roles of the network and of the class are described. (LRW)

Discusses the use of computer networks and software in libraries and/or classrooms. Benefits for students and teachers are described, including improved communication between students and between students and teachers; guidelines for selecting hardware are suggested, including workstations and printers; and planning considerations are discussed.…